In a context of increasing digitalisation and new consumer demands, the modernisation of traditional commerce has become a pressing issue in order to guarantee the competitiveness and sustainability of local businesses.
As part of the ICCO Project - Cross-border Innovation and Competitiveness Network for Traditional Trade, DECO plays a key role in strengthening communication and relations between consumers and traders DECO is the largest consumer protection organisation in Portugal, active for over 50 years in promoting consumer rights and improving consumer relations. With an active role in consumer information, education and protection, DECO has also been working directly with the business sector, helping traders and companies to adopt good commercial practices and create more transparent and effective relationships with their customers. As part of the ICCO Project, DECO puts its experience at the service of local commerce, empowering traders/entrepreneurs and supporting the modernisation of their businesses to better respond to consumer needs. Through workshops, training and information materials, DECO has worked to:
- Clarify consumer rights and help traders comply with legislation, reducing complaints and improving customer satisfaction;
- Modernising trade management with good practices, making businesses more efficient and competitive;
- Helping entrepreneurs adapt to new consumer trends, including digitalisation, current payment methods and new loyalty strategies;
- Encouraging innovation through the use of technology and the implementation of marketing and customer experience strategies.
Always with respect for Consumer Rights The Association remains committed to modernisation and innovation in traditional commerce, ensuring that traders are prepared to respond to consumer needs.
ICCO is not just a project - it is a movement to strengthen local commerce and create a sustainable and competitive ecosystem. With effective communication, capacity-building events and ongoing work with partners, DECO is taking a central role in transforming traditional commerce, making it more resilient, innovative and consumer-centred.